Arctic wind and sub zero conditions brought back memories of the last snowy Wessex race, also at Dalton Barracks a few years back. This time the ground was frozen solid, making things slippier than a greased eel. The course in a different part of the military base at Abingdon to previous years, still featured tracks used by army vehicle training vehicles and was littered with helicopters and tanks – the big 4×4 ruts were not to taken lightly!
Our top finishers in the youth races brought 3rd and 2nd for Stanley and Billy in the U8s and u10s. Matilda and Corden 4th and 6th in their U12 races. Tom Allen had a great start in the U14s and was in the shake up for the win as he went clear in a group of two, only a couple of small slips denying him the win. George Connell and Emma Harrison was 9th and 7th in the U16s.
Best result of the day was by Andy Gardiner in the v40 men as he quickly forged a big lead over the field as other favourites struggled with the icy terrain and were forced to retire with mechanicals – sadly including Tom Budden who was sitting in second place at the time.
Gemma Wilks finished 7th senior women. Jon Hall took 5th place in the v50 men and Jon Dudley was 6th in the v60s.
Great riding everyone!
Photos: Pitchside Paul